How to Grow Cherry Plums From Seeds: A Complete Guide
Growing cherry plums from seeds, while requiring patience, is rewarding. The process involves stratification to break seed dormancy, followed by careful planting and nurturing to cultivate strong seedlings ready for transplanting.
Introduction to Cherry Plums
Cherry plums, also known as myrobalan plums ( Prunus cerasifera), are small, round stone fruits prized for their tart-sweet flavor and ornamental value. They’re often used for making jams, jellies, and preserves, and their beautiful spring blossoms brighten any landscape. While propagating via cuttings or grafting is faster, growing from seed allows for genetic diversity and the potential for discovering unique variations. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on successfully growing cherry plums from seed.
The Benefits of Growing Cherry Plums from Seed
Why choose the seed route? It offers several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Obtaining seeds is generally less expensive than buying established trees.
- Genetic Diversity: Seeds introduce genetic variation, potentially leading to unique fruit characteristics or disease resistance.
- Rootstock Potential: Cherry plum seedlings can serve as excellent rootstock for grafting other plum varieties.
- Satisfying Project: The process is educational and provides a deep sense of accomplishment.
The Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Growing cherry plums from seeds involves several key stages:
Seed Collection:
- Gather ripe cherry plums from healthy, productive trees in late summer or early fall.
- Choose fruits that are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch.
Seed Extraction:
- Remove the pulp surrounding the seed. A simple method involves macerating the fruit in water and then separating the seeds.
- Thoroughly clean the seeds to remove any remaining pulp, as this can harbor fungal spores.
Stratification (Cold Treatment):
- This crucial step mimics winter conditions and breaks seed dormancy.
- Place the cleaned seeds in a moist medium, such as peat moss, vermiculite, or sand.
- Store the mixture in a sealed plastic bag or container in the refrigerator (around 35-45°F or 2-7°C) for at least 90-120 days.
- Check the seeds periodically to ensure the medium remains moist but not waterlogged.
Planting the Stratified Seeds:
- After stratification, plant the seeds in individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the seeds about ½ inch deep.
- Water gently and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Place the pots in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights.
Seedling Care:
- Once seedlings emerge, provide adequate light and water.
- Fertilize sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
- Repot seedlings into larger containers as they grow.
Hardening Off:
- Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions.
- Start by placing them in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the exposure over a week or two.
Transplanting:
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling.
- Carefully remove the seedling from the pot and place it in the hole.
- Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Insufficient Stratification: Inadequate cold treatment will result in poor germination.
- Overwatering: Soggy soil can lead to root rot.
- Neglecting Hardening Off: Transplanting seedlings directly from indoors to outdoors can shock them and stunt their growth.
- Poor Soil Drainage: Cherry plums prefer well-draining soil; planting in heavy clay can lead to problems.
- Ignoring Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect seedlings for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action.
Optimizing Growth: Sunlight, Soil, and Water
| Factor | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Sunlight | At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. |
| Soil | Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. |
| Watering | Consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering. |
Propagation Timeline
The entire process, from seed collection to transplanting, can take over a year. This timeline can vary based on environmental conditions and seed viability. Be prepared for a multi-year commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for cherry plum seeds to germinate?
Germination can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days after planting the stratified seeds. Optimal conditions (warmth, moisture, light) will encourage faster germination. Don’t be discouraged if some seeds take longer than others; patience is key.
What is the best time of year to collect cherry plum seeds?
The best time to collect seeds is in late summer or early fall, when the fruits are fully ripe. Choose fruits that have reached their full color and are slightly soft to the touch, indicating they are mature and the seeds are ready for extraction.
Can I use cherry plums from the grocery store to get seeds?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Grocery store plums may be hybrids, and their seeds may not be viable or true to type. Sourcing seeds from a known, healthy cherry plum tree is much more reliable.
What happens if I don’t stratify the seeds?
Without stratification, the seeds will likely not germinate. The cold treatment is essential to break seed dormancy, a natural mechanism that prevents seeds from germinating under unfavorable conditions (like before winter).
How do I know if my stratified seeds are still viable?
You can perform a viability test by placing a few seeds between moist paper towels in a plastic bag at room temperature. After a week or two, check for germination. If a significant number of seeds sprout, the rest are likely viable.
What kind of fertilizer should I use for cherry plum seedlings?
A balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) diluted to half strength is ideal. Fertilize sparingly, about every two to three weeks, especially during the active growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the roots.
How large should the pots be for starting the seeds?
Start with small pots, about 2-3 inches in diameter. As the seedlings grow, transplant them into larger pots (4-6 inches) to accommodate their expanding root systems. This allows the roots to develop healthily.
When is the best time to transplant cherry plum seedlings outdoors?
The best time to transplant is in early spring, after the last frost. Ensure the soil is workable and the seedlings have been properly hardened off before transplanting.
How far apart should I plant cherry plum trees?
Cherry plum trees typically need 15-20 feet between them. This provides ample space for growth and allows for adequate sunlight penetration. Consider the mature size of the variety you are growing.
Are cherry plum trees self-pollinating?
While some cherry plum varieties are self-pollinating, others benefit from cross-pollination. Planting multiple cherry plum trees can improve fruit set and yield.
How long does it take for a cherry plum tree grown from seed to bear fruit?
It can take 3-5 years for a cherry plum tree grown from seed to start bearing fruit. Grafted trees typically produce fruit much sooner (1-2 years).
What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry plum trees?
Common pests include aphids, plum curculio, and spider mites. Diseases can include brown rot, leaf spot, and plum pox virus. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment are essential for maintaining tree health.